Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark Recipe
This Dark Chocolate Peppermint Bark is a festive, easy-to-make holiday treat featuring rich dark chocolate blended with crushed peppermint candy canes for a refreshing minty crunch. Perfect as a gift or a sweet snack, it combines smooth chocolate with vibrant peppermint flavor and a delightful texture contrast.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 minutes
- Total Time: 32 minutes
- Yield: About 24 pieces 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 6 regular-sized candy canes
- 9 oz dark chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon peppermint extract (optional)
Instructions
- Prep: Line a half sheet pan with a Silpat mat or parchment paper and set it aside for later use.
- Crush Candy Canes: Place the 6 candy canes into a large ziplock bag. Lay the bag on a kitchen towel and use a meat mallet or rolling pin to crush the candy canes into small pieces, keeping the towel under the bag to prevent spills in case the bag tears. Scoop out 2 tablespoons of the crushed candy canes and set them aside for topping.
- Melt Chocolate: Put the dark chocolate chips into a medium-sized microwave-safe bowl. Microwave them in 30-second increments, stirring well between each until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted—this should take about 1 minute 30 seconds to 2 minutes total.
- Combine & Spread: Immediately stir the remaining crushed candy canes and peppermint extract (if using) into the melted chocolate until evenly incorporated. Pour the mixture onto the prepared sheet pan and spread into an even layer. Gently shake the pan back and forth to help the mixture settle uniformly.
- Add Topping & Chill: Sprinkle the reserved 2 tablespoons of crushed candy canes evenly over the top of the chocolate layer. Place the pan in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes, or until the chocolate has fully set and hardened.
- Break & Serve: Once set, break the peppermint bark into irregular pieces using your hands or a knife. Serve immediately or package in gift bags with a ribbon for giving. Store any leftovers refrigerated until ready to enjoy.
Notes
- Using a Silpat mat or parchment paper makes it easier to lift the bark off the pan once set.
- Microwaving times may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage; stir frequently to avoid burning the chocolate.
- The peppermint extract is optional but adds an extra layer of minty flavor—feel free to omit if desired.
- Keep the bark stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and texture.
- For a different twist, try using white chocolate or a mixture of milk and dark chocolate.
Keywords: dark chocolate peppermint bark, holiday treat, peppermint bark recipe, festive dessert, chocolate candy bark, easy holiday candy
Find it online: https://cookwithruby.com/dark-chocolate-peppermint-bark-recipe/
